Director of Development, Campus Initiatives

Director of Development, Campus Initiatives

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The Director of Development, Campus Initiatives advances Wake Forest University’s strategic priorities by securing philanthropic support for campus-wide initiatives that enhance student life, academic excellence, access and affordability, and the overall campus experience. In partnership with Cabinet-level leaders and development colleagues across University Advancement, the Director provides strategic fundraising leadership for high-priority initiatives.

• Serve as the primary development leader and liaison for assigned campus initiatives and programs, with annual individual fundraising goals of $2M and project goals ranging from $10M–$100M+.
• Collaborate with campus leaders and partners to translate institutional needs into clearly defined fundable priorities.
• Work closely with development officers across University Advancement to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major and principal gifts from shared and managed prospects.
• Develop and implement strategic communication and engagement plans that clearly articulate campus priorities and inspire donor investment.
• Maintain a strong and current understanding of Wake Forest’s strategic plan, campaign priorities, and evolving philanthropic goals.
• Maintain accurate donor records and activity reports in the University’s CRM system and consistently track progress toward fundraising goals.
• Collaborate with the Donor Experience team to engage and steward donors, ensuring sustained connection to their philanthropic commitments.
• Contribute to a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability within the Advancement division.
• Demonstrate leadership and character development in the workplace and align with Wake Forest’s mission.
• Join a team that makes a meaningful difference in people’s lives every day.

• Bachelor’s degree with eight to ten years of fundraising experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Knowledge and proven history of gaining philanthropic support and financial commitments from others.
• Knowledge, awareness, and skills related to fundraising in a student affairs/student success context.
• Ability to identify and secure gifts of non-traditional assets and/or charitable gifts from alternative funding sources.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituents.
• Commitment to the mission and values of University Advancement and a commitment to community and belonging with a willingness to learn and integrate it into all aspects of the work.
• Respect for the dignity and abilities of all people.
• Ability to foster teamwork and cooperation in a work environment.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills in prioritizing workflow and managing resources.
• Ability to manage and maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Ability to multi-task and demonstrate sound judgment and discretion.
• Knowledge of University policies and procedures, or ability to acquire knowledge quickly.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google apps, and other relevant software.
• Ability to research, collect, and analyze data, compile information, and prepare reports.
• Experience in database management and maintenance.
• Detail-oriented in coordinating activities.
• Ability to supervise and train staff, volunteers, and student workers, including organizing and scheduling work assignments.
• Skill in fiscal management.
• Knowledge of charitable giving techniques, instruments, and relevant laws.
• Ability to travel locally and nationally as necessary.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as necessary.
• Ability to meet requirements of the University's automobile insurance policy.

• Experience in direct fundraising.
• Experience working in higher education and student affairs or not-for-profit environments.
• Understanding of the donor cycle.
• Knowledge of Wake Forest University, its schools, programs, and administrative units.
• Previous experience with frequent travel.

• Responsible for own work.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all qualified candidates to apply without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, disability and military or veteran status.

If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, please contact AskHR or .